I was 25 years old when I was diagnosed with ME and lived with it for over 5 years. It had a huge impact on my life and even the easiest everyday tasks became almost impossible, but I see myself as fortunate as I have managed to return to almost 100% normal health.

25 years later at the grand age of 50 and having overcome this debilitating illness I am now planning to take on the biggest physical challenge of my life, whilst raising money for M.E, by climbing the highest mountain in Western Europe – Mont Blanc!

As a ‘peri’ guitar teacher I don’t get much exercise, so in order to get fit I can often be seen walking and running up and down the hills of the Cam Valley with a full back pack, in the hope that I will be fit enough both physically and mentally!

At the beginning of August I will set off for Switzerland where I will start my training in the Swiss Valais Alps and make a 4000m ascent and spend a night in a high hut to acclimatise before attempting the ascent of Mont Blanc.

ABOUT  ME

ME (Myalgic Encephalopathy), is also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS).  

Little is known about ME and there are a lot of misconceptions about what it actually is. Lives are drastically changed, in all areas, including school, work, social and family life.

Symptoms include – severe fatigue, painful muscles and joints, sleep disturbance, gastric disturbance, cognitive impairment and often depression all contribute to an unbearable day-to-day life.

This serious chronic disease once labelled as Yuppie’s Flu in the 80’s, cuts across all social classes and strikes in both young and old, but particularly in teenagers and those between 20 – 40.  An independent report in 2002 stated that it was serious condition that needed to be taken seriously by the medical profession with urgent improvements in treatment.

Yet a decade later those diagnosed currently receive between  just £3- £50 on specialist care each year!

As research into the cause and effective treatments continues, The ME Association offers help and support for the 250,000 people in the UK alone, who are affected by ME. 

Your generosity will help them continue to their valued work.

THANK YOU!!

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